This Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken paired with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is the ultimate comfort meal, combining bold, sticky-sweet flavors with the rich, velvety indulgence of cheesy pasta. The tender chicken is coated in a honey-pepper glaze with a kick of sriracha, perfectly complementing the creamy, savory macaroni. This dish is ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or when you crave a restaurant-quality meal at home.
The honey pepper chicken is baked to perfection, locking in its juices while the sauce caramelizes into a glossy, sticky glaze. Meanwhile, the macaroni cheese is prepared with a classic roux base, creating a smooth sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Together, this dynamic duo promises a balance of spice, sweetness, and creamy goodness that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Flavor Explosion: The chicken boasts a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory.
• Comfort Food Heaven: Creamy macaroni cheese is the ultimate side, rich and indulgent.
• Family-Friendly: This meal can be easily adjusted for spice levels, making it suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Creamy Macaroni Cheese
• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and caramelization for the chicken.
Prepare the Honey Pepper Sauce
1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, sriracha, black pepper, and minced garlic.
2. Stir until the ingredients are well blended, forming a flavorful sauce.
Bake the Chicken
1. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish in a single layer.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, basting the chicken with the sauce halfway through for maximum flavor.
4. The chicken is ready when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the sauce has reduced to a sticky glaze.
Cook the Macaroni
1. While the chicken bakes, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour, cooking for 2 minutes until it forms a light golden roux.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve
1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is coated in creamy goodness.
2. Serve the baked honey pepper chicken alongside a generous portion of creamy macaroni cheese.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
Tips
• Adjust Spice Levels: Reduce or increase the sriracha to suit your spice preference.
• Check Sauce Consistency: If the cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it to your liking.
• Use Fresh Cheese: For the best flavor and melting quality, shred your cheddar from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Freezing: Freeze the chicken and macaroni cheese separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
• Meal Prep: Prepare the components ahead of time and store them in individual portions for quick meals during the week.
Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese is a crowd-pleaser that combines bold flavors with comforting textures. It’s the perfect dish for weeknight dinners or to impress guests at your next gathering.
